Incubators nurture young firms, helping them to survive and grow during the start-up period when they are most vulnerable. Incubators provide hands-on management assistance, access to financing, and exposure to critical business or technical support services. They also offer entrepreneurial firms shared office services, access to equipment, flexible leases, and expandable space — all under one roof.

What does a business incubator do?

Business incubators are generally physical structures that nurture start-up businesses. Some incubators focus on one specific kind of business (such as technology or manufacturing), while others promote mixed use.

Why should I support business incubators?

Simply stated, they work. According to national statistics, 30% of incubator clients typically graduate each year. According to the Impact of Incubator Investments Study, 1997, 87% of incubator graduates remain in business. Less than one in four businesses that start outside of an incubator survive for five years.

Why should a new business want to locate in a business incubator?

Most new businesses have a strength in a specific area and a great deal of passion. What they generally lack is experience in the basics of running a business and the infrastructure -the fax machines and telephone systems - to make things work. Virginia’s business incubators give these bold new companies structure, credibility, access to knowledge, infrastructure, and contacts that are necessary for the businesses to take root.

Why should I join VBIA?

Certainly, no one can argue that the ultimate good of our economy is served by developing viable new businesses. In addition to doing a positive thing for your community, you’re also getting access to tomorrow’s business leaders. It can be a great chance to make mutually beneficial business alliances. And who knows? You just might meet your next boss.

VBIA members get free and discounted educational opportunities. Members also enjoy exceptional networking opportunities and access to an impressive store of knowledge on issues ranging from employment law to work-flow management.

VBIA leans on the expertise of a range of volunteers and members. Its rate structure is designed to promote participation from professionals from all walks of life.